A new World Wildlife Fund report found that the European Union could be fully powered by renewable energy by 2050.

To be able to achieve this, W.W.F. suggested Europe needs to reduce its energy consumption by over one third and generate almost half of its energy from renewables by 2030.

According to the report, “Putting E.U. on Track for 100% Renewable Energy”, the region has significant untapped potential for reducing its energy use and maximizing indigenous power sources that could provide cheaper and more secure energy. However, this potential is hindered by the “lack of political ambition.”

Calling for a greater clarity on policies for renewable energy and energy efficiency after 2020, the report was released in a time when the European Commission starts to consider post-2020 climate and energy plans.

With the 2030 recommendations applied, the E.U. could also reduce its €573 billion ($888.72 billion) external fossil fuel bill and cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent compared to 1990 levels.

“Improving on Europe’s 2020 climate and energy targets by introducing an ambitious package of post-2020 measures is a win-win situation for everyone,” said Jason Anderson, Head of Climate & Energy at W.W.F. European Policy Office.

“It would not only help reduce the impact of climate change, including huge health and environmental costs, but it would also help to generate up to 5 million jobs, significantly boosting the economy,” he added.

In a survey conducted by W.W.F., it is found that about 8 out of 10 Europeans believe that addressing climate change can usher economic growth and create jobs. Meanwhile, 70 percent of Europeans agree that investment in renewable energy should be a priority in the next three decades, unlike other alternative energy sources such as shale gas, nuclear and carbon capture and storage plants.

“We must now decide how our energy system will develop after 2020, so that current benefits are maximized, not squandered,” stressed Mr. Anderson. – EcoSeed Staff

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